Sizing a van around what you are moving
List the largest items with rough length, width and height, and give an estimate of total weight, because bulk and payload limit a van in different ways. Mention anything awkward, such as a wardrobe that cannot be dismantled or long timber. Describe loading at both ends, including stairs, lift access, distance from the kerb and whether anyone will help lift.
Picking a suitable van
Start with the load, then choose the van. A small van works well for boxes, tools and light collections; medium and long-wheelbase vans suit furniture, stock and trade equipment; and a Luton is the better choice for bulkier items on a house move. Subject to dates, driver details and availability, the range includes the Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit SWB, VW Transporter Automatic, Ford Transit MWB and Ford Transit LWB. Make, model, transmission, seats, payload and licence position are all confirmed at quote stage, so treat these vehicles as a guide to the kind of hire on offer rather than a guaranteed reservation of a particular model.
Writing Down Your Job Information
Start with a plain list of everything the van needs to carry. Note each item's name and, for the largest pieces, its approximate height, width and depth, since those figures matter more than a general description when you come to discuss options. Beside the list, record the hire dates, the addresses involved and a named contact at each one, including whoever is receiving goods at the far end. Add any access details you already know, such as parking arrangements or restricted hours, along with the questions you still need to ask. Keeping this information together means you can answer the team's queries quickly and raise sensible ones of your own when you request a quote.
Allowing Time for Packing and Loading
How long should you set aside between collecting the van and heading off? Rather than guessing, sketch the day out on paper with an arrival time at each address, the window needed to get items out of the house and any periods spent waiting for others. If helpers are joining, note when each one is available and whether their hours overlap. Write down whether the job could stretch into a second day, and if so, what that would change about your hire dates. Comparing one trip against several is easier once these timings are on record, because you can see where the schedule is tight and where there is slack. Those notes also give you concrete points to discuss with the team before booking.
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Last checks before booking
Before the hire is confirmed, go over the key points: whether the vehicle is available, the driver requirements, mileage, insurance, the delivery or collection arrangements and any extras you have asked for. Make sure payload, loading height, tail-lift needs, driver details, deposits and insurance excess are confirmed before you settle on a van size. A clear request gives the date, the length of hire, a rough route, the delivery or pickup address, the passengers or load you expect and any special requirements that might affect which vehicle is suitable.